Method for engaging a watercraft speed control system

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a method for controlling the speed of a watercraft that allows for engaging the speed control system without limitation to current engine or vessel speed.

This application claims priority to provisional application No. 60/849,240, filed on Oct. 4, 2006, incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Applicants' invention pertains to the field of the watercraft.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Previous speed control systems either require the operator to bring the watercraft to the desired speed to engaging into speed control or allow for the operator to input their intent to transition into speed control, yet the speed control system does not shift into speed control mode until the vessel is near or reaches the target speed.

The subject invention seeks to overcome the drawbacks of other systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention, a flow diagram of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided.

The methods for controlling the speed of a watercraft that allows for engaging the speed control system without limitation to current engine or vessel. speed.

The method set as set forth in claim 5 additionally comprising the use of the position of the operator controlled throttle lever to limit the authority of the watercraft speed control system by limiting the maximum allowable torque output of the prime mover.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a flow diagram of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A method for controlling the speed of a watercraft that allows for engaging the speed control system without limitation to current engine or vessel speed. The operator has authority to engage the waterspeed control system while the vessel is at rest, moving at a speed below the target speed, at the target speed or above the target speed. Once engaged, the watercraft speed control system instantly begins to control vessel speed. The position of the operator controlled throttle lever limits the authority of the watercraft speed control system by limiting the maximum allowable torque output of the prime mover.

Following FIG. 1 the present method of invention may be described as follows:

Does the Current Target Speed equal the Desired Target Speed?

If Yes, the previously set target speed is used (No operator input is required).

If No, the operator inputs the Desired Target Speed.

The operator engages the speed control system.

The watercraft speed control system instantly begins to control vessel per the following strategy?

If current vessel speed>target speed, the speed control system attempts to reach target speed, yet is limited to the maximum allowable torque output of the prime mover as determined by the current position of the operator controlled throttle.

If current vessel speed=target speed, the speed control system attempts remain at target speed, yet is limited to the maximum allowable torque output of the prime mover as determined by the current position of the operator controlled throttle lever. 

1. A method for controlling the speed of a watercraft that allows for engaging the speed control system without limitation to current engine or vessel speed.
 2. The method as set forth in claim 1 additionally comprising the use of the position of the operator controlled throttle lever to limit the authority of the watercraft speed control system by limiting the maximum allowable torque output of the prime mover.
 3. The method as described herein. 